Saturday, June 16, 2012

Mulberry Tree

The Mulberry tree (Morus alba) is also known as white
mulberry. Mulberry trees are fast growing, deciduous trees that are native to
China. Mulberry trees can reach 25’-30’ tall and 35’-40’ wide, or larger. Fruitless
mulberry or male trees are generally considered more desirable than the female
or fruit bearing trees. However, fruitless mulberry trees are prolific pollen
producers and are banned in some communities because of allergen potential.

Mulberries
can grow 4’-6’ per year producing a tree canopy that is more wide than tall.

Where water is not limiting, mulberries make great shade trees producing a deep, dark,
shade canopy.

Leaves are large and sometimes variable in shape.

A few strategically planted mulberries can shade an
entire yard.

The female mulberry tree produces abundant sweet fruit

that resemble blackberries.

Female trees are very messy because of fruit drop

so plant them away from sidewalks, driveways, and the
house.

Mulberry trees have aggressive surface root systems so
plant them at least 25’ from any structures such as walls, sidewalks, or the house.
Mulberry trees are hardy to USDA zone 2
and are best grown with regular water.

Click on the following link to experience the Mulberry
Tree via slide show: